Merck's Tulisokibart Cuts Skin Lesions in Mid-Stage Study

Merck's experimental drug tulisokibart has shown promise in treating hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic skin disease that causes painful lumps to form under the skin. According to Merck, the highest dose of tulisokibart reduced inflammatory skin lesions by at least 50% in 72% of patients after 16 weeks, compared to 35% on placebo.

The study also found that about 41% of patients receiving the highest dose achieved a 75% reduction in lesions, while only 15% of those on placebo did. Merck acquired tulisokibart through its $10.8 billion purchase of Prometheus Biosciences in 2023.

Analysts say the results validate the drug's mechanism and position it as a potential new treatment option for hidradenitis suppurativa. The market for such treatments is expected to exceed $10 billion by 2035, according to RBC Capital analysts.